Expert: Thom Brooks - 8/31/2008

Question
QUESTION: Re: Section 1 / Article 3 / Section b

ARTICLE 3. The offensive team requirements are as follows:

b. When the snap starts: The offensive team must be in a formation that
meets these requirements:

1. At least seven players legally on their scrimmage line, not less than
five of whom shall be numbered 50 through 79. The remaining
players must be either on their scrimmage line or legally positioned
as a back (A.R. 2-27-4-I) [S19].

We are running a formation with only 5 down lineman, can the tackle in a upright stance, angle his body?  if so how much before it is an illegal formation?

Also, what is the defnition of "legally on their scrimmage line"?


ANSWER: Coach,

You can go to the NCAA website, below to also verify.

Thom Brooks


Please review these websites.  The first one is my youngest son's band!


MySpace.com - Listen 2 Three - SAVANNAH, Georgia - Rock / Pop / Blues - www.myspace.com/listen2three



ncaafootball.com



http://www.ncaa.org/library/rules/2006/2006_football_rules.pdf




D1AFootball.com




http://www.ncaa.org/library/records/football/football_records_book/2007/2007_d





---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you, I am still looking for what is the allowable foot placement range from the line of scrimmage for an OT.

The NCAA rule states

At least seven players legally on their scrimmage line, not less than five of whom shall be numbered 50 through 79. The remaining players must be either on their scrimmage line or legally positioned as a back (A.R. 2-27-4-I) [S19].

what is technial definition of "legally on their scrimmage line"?


Answer
Coach, the rules are that the player must have the head or foot break the plane of the snapper's waist.  If your player is turned away from the line of scrimmage but his foot is breaking the snapper's waist line, you could have an argument with the officials if your player is not facing the scrimmage line.  You could be flagged for Unsportsmanlike if it appears your players were attempting to deceive the other team.

If you can send me a fax number, I will fax to you several pages of rules (perhaps you have them already).  My personal email is:

CompnyBiz@aol.com

Contact me to give me you number if I can help further.

Take care,

Thom Brooks